Gator Found in Gwinnett

Deer, raccoons and squirrels are fairly common sights in Lawrenceville backyards. But an alligator?

The three-foot long reptile has made itself a home along Dunlin Lake, not far from a residential neighborhood. 

Muhammed Kabir told WSB-TV he's seen the alligator on the banks of the lake for a good two years now.

The Department of Natural Resources says the animal, which most likely was a pet released into the wild, does not pose a threat due to its small size. 

You should still stay away from any alligator if at all possible. If you are attacked by one, here are some tips to fight back: 

• Hit or poke the animal in the eyes with whatever you have available-- a stick, an oar, a knife, etc. The eyes are the most vulnerable part of the alligator's body.
• Attack the nostrils or ears. Although they are not as sensitive as the eyes, a hard hit or cut to one of these areas should lessen the gator's grip. 
• If your arm or leg is in the alligator's mouth, go for the palatal valve. This is the tissue behind the tongue that covers their throats when they go underwater and keeps them from drowning. 

Have you seen this alligator? If so and you can do so safely, please take a photo and upload it to this page by clicking the "Upload Photos and Videos" button.